And there are some investors who go for those lesser quality areas, because they have experience in those types of properties and know they can buy there inexpensively. 

I focus solely on Detroit proper because, in my experience, the rent-to-price ratios, opportunities for value-add projects, and overall market potential are much stronger there.That said, Detroit is a nuanced market.

From my experience working with over 400 investors, consider alternative strategies like rent-by-the-room, buying an SFH with an ADU, or renting where you live while investing elsewhere.

I'm curious to hear from those who have invested in airport-adjacent properties for the long term — how has your experience been?

@Blair Ross Jr depends on how much experience you have with investing in rental properties.

@Robert Gorra - I've had a similar experience where I've had a really hard time with getting GC's to even give me an estimate, and the few that have have been way overpriced (ie, they want me to put in $20k of cabinets in a budget flip) or have had their prices go up by about 40% and still not give me a firm price when I try to nail down the scope of work.

You need to work with a property manager that has experience with this, unless you plan on doing it yourself.

( Regarding interior, and not HOA, management, location)Anyone has experience renting for snowbirds?

These groups are goldmines for finding mentors, reliable vendors, and other investors to learn from.Property ManagementChoosing the right property management company can make or break your experience.

You don't need to know everything to get started; you need a foundation to build on, and the rest will come through experience and then refining your education.You can build a basic understanding of investing in 3-6 months.